Dealing with the Anxiety of Calling Out Sick for Work: A Professional’s Perspective

It's common for many people to feel nervous about calling in sick for work. This anxiety can stem from various factors including fear of judgment, workload concerns, company culture, personal standards, and past experiences. While not everyone experiences this nervousness, it is a common reaction and recognizing it can help individuals manage their feelings better when they need to take a sick day.

Common Sources of Anxiety When Calling Out Sick

Some employees fear that their illness will be perceived as unreliable or lazy, leading to a judgment from their boss or colleagues. Others feel guilty about leaving their colleagues to handle their responsibilities, especially if they work in a team-oriented environment. Additionally, some employees may feel more anxious in workplaces that emphasize attendance, where calling in sick is frowned upon.

Individuals with high personal standards for professionalism may feel uncomfortable taking time off even when necessary, while past negative experiences can also contribute to anxiety, making someone hesitant to do it again. Recognizing these sources of anxiety can help individuals find better ways to manage their feelings and take necessary sick days without undue stress.

My Personal Experience with Calling Out Sick

I’ve often felt nervous about calling out sick, even when it’s necessary. There are a few reasons why this is the case for me. Firstly, I have a relatively high level of anxiety in general, and phone calls, particularly to unfamiliar people, can be particularly daunting. Additionally, I understand that this is a part of life that will not go away, but that doesn’t make it any easier to face.

Remember a time when I absolutely hated calling out for an appointment I couldn’t control, like a doctor’s or dentist’s appointment. The ask part was a big problem because I had little control over the situation. Sometimes, I just needed an extra long weekend, and having to justify it bothered me. Either I was contributing enough to the employer to work with my need for time off, or they should fire me. I had already decided that the lost income or the inability to work today was not a huge concern. Now, I just take the time I need.

Navigating the Decision to Call Out Sick

When I need a sick day, whether it’s due to a personal emergency like a doctor’s appointment or simply feeling unwell, I make my own decision about what is necessary. If the situation is urgent, like with a specialist appointment, I might reschedule, which often means a month to six-month delay. In other cases, I might work through mild illness, as the needs of the business are important. However, I prioritize my health and well-being and make the best decision based on my circumstances.

Being self-employed has given me a unique perspective on this. As a freelancer or owner of a small business, I’m my own boss, and I understand the value of taking care of both my health and my business. This flexibility helps me navigate the decision-making process with more ease.

Conclusion

Calling out sick is a necessary part of being a professional, and it is important not to let fear and anxiety prevent you from taking the necessary time off when you need it. By recognizing the common sources of anxiety and making the best decision for your situation, you can take control of your health and work life.